SOCHI, February 20, /ITAR-TASS/. - The Finnish national ice hockey team proved stronger than the Russian because of its team game, Boris Mikhailov, twice Olympic champion, told Itar-Tass.

The Finnish team beat the Russian team 3-1 in the quarterfinals of the Olympic ice hockey tournament. “The Russian team obviously acted without coordination in defence, nor did it prevail over the rival in attacking,” Mikhailov said. “The players also failed to show good team game today. Risking to offend our star players, I must say that a set of famous names in itself means nothing. Coordinated actions were lacking,” Mikhailov said.

The expert said “No” when asked if the Finnish team surprised him in any way. “It used a simple tactic, as in the previous years. I must note a good discipline of the team. Taking the lead in the score, they continued acting cleverly. It is apparent that the team was playing in accordance with the coach’s advice. As to veteran player Teemu Selanne, his performance was no surprise either. He is an excellent player who did well for his team. I wish him to continue playing this way,” Mikhailov said.